Zarva Transylvanian band

Event information

Zarva band
Village music from Transylvania

The musicians:

Rudi Toni and Viktor Berki are Transylvanian Gypsy musicians specialising in the ancient and beautiful music of the old Kalotaszeg region (in modern day Cluj and Salaj counties). Now aged 43, Toni Rudi, from the village of Mera, accompanied the legendary violinist Fodor Sandor 'Neti' since he was 14 years old. Viktor Berki is a superb double bass player from Cluj. He plays with many ensembles, and also accompanied the great 'Neti' for over 10 years. Together they form the most authentic and highly regarded rhythm section of modern times, and specifically of the Kalotaszeg style.

Now based in the UK, but also from a musician- family in Transylvania, award-winning Monooka's unique and beautiful voice has been winning over audiences wherever she performs.

Freshly arrived from Hungary, Csaba Mozer has been playing Hungarian folk music since 1995, having been brought up learning the beautiful songs taught to him by his Gypsy grandmother in Hungary. A talented bracsa, accordion, and cimbalom player he is an invaluable addition to the line-up.

Violinist and leader of Csergő band Ashanta Csergő discovered the music of her Transylvanian roots some 5 years ago. Frequent and extensive trips to Transylvania to learn from the best Gypsy village musicians in the region have resulted in her becoming somewhat of an expert in interpreting the various styles to be found there.